O*NET-SOC 15-2031.00 · US REFERENCE
Operations Research Analysts
Formulate and apply mathematical modeling and other optimizing methods to develop and interpret information that assists management with decisionmaking, policy formulation, or other managerial functions. May collect and analyze data and develop decision support software, services, or products. May develop and supply optimal time, cost, or logistics networks for program evaluation, review, or implementation.
Skill importance below is an O*NET US occupational rating, not a global or individual benchmark. No score here is a job-loss probability or a prediction.
Examples of work in this occupation
- Present the results of mathematical modeling and data analysis to management or other end users.
- Define data requirements, and gather and validate information, applying judgment and statistical tests.
O*NET task statements describe US work; do not perform regulated or hazardous tasks without appropriate training and authorization.
Skills to examine first
Mathematics
US occupation importance: 4.50/5 · rating last updated 2024-08-01
Check a public numerical example, including units and assumptions; explain the result.
Reading Comprehension
US occupation importance: 4.00/5 · rating last updated 2024-08-01
Summarise a public, role-relevant document in five points; verify each point against the source.
Active Listening
US occupation importance: 4.00/5 · rating last updated 2024-08-01
Ask a peer to explain a fictional work problem; paraphrase it and check what you missed.
Writing
US occupation importance: 4.00/5 · rating last updated 2024-08-01
Draft a one-page explanation of a fictional decision for a non-specialist; ask for clarity feedback.
Speaking
US occupation importance: 4.00/5 · rating last updated 2024-08-01
Explain a safe example of your work in two minutes, then ask which point was unclear.
Critical Thinking
US occupation importance: 4.00/5 · rating last updated 2024-08-01
Compare two approaches to a fictional task and document one counterargument for each.
These prompts are RolePaths practice suggestions, not O*NET instructions, training or certification.
Related work to compare
O*NET marks these occupations as related. That is a comparison starting point, not a guaranteed career transition. Check local licensing and entry requirements.
Your next seven days
- Choose one skill above and a fictional or non-confidential work example.
- Practise for 20 minutes on three days; keep one small output.
- Ask a qualified peer for feedback against clear criteria.
- Reassess the same career and record what changed.
Source and limits
Occupation definition, task examples, skill importance and related-occupation links come from the US O*NET 31.0 Database. RolePaths selected the top six skills by importance and authored the practice prompts. Career fit, local salaries, automation timing and licensing have not been verified.